Open Records Law Celebrated in New Hampshire

In the last ten years, 1,700 adoptees have received their original birth documents.

Denalee Chapman
January 09, 2015

New Hampshire is one of just 18 states in the United States who have open records laws for adoptees. It’s been 10 years since New Hampshire’s law went into effect and since that time roughly 1,700 adoptees have requested and received their original birth documents.

When introduction of the law began, it was opposed by most organizations including pro-life groups, adoption advocates, and pro-abortion groups, according to Washington Times. This is ironic since so many have benefited from the passage of the law. The concern by most of these groups in 2005 was that more abortions would happen in place of adoptions because of birth mothers’ desires to remain anonymous. However, abortions continue to decline.

Of the 1,700 adult adoptees who have received their original birth records, only 13 birth parents have refused contact. The law is set up so that adult adoptees may not only receive their birth certificates, but also any contact preference or medical history forms filled out by the birth parents.

More information about the 10th anniversary of New Hampshire’s Open Records Law may be read here.

Denalee Chapman

Denalee is an adoptive mother, a motivational speaker, a writer and a lover of life. She and her husband have adventured through the hills and valleys of life to find that the highest highs and the lowest lows are equally fuflilling. Book Denalee to speak to your group, or find Denalee's writings, including her books on her website at DenaleeChapman.com.

Want to contact an adoption professional?

Subscribe for FREE to the Best of Adoption.com eMagazinePrivacy Policy

Love this? Want more?

Sign up for our newsletter and never miss out on the best adoption content!